Helambu Trek -10 Days

Helambu, the closest region to the North of Kathmandu, is renowned for its sweet apples and artistic Buddhist monasteries. Encircling the Melamchi River Valley, Helambu is incredibly tranquil. It is also one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites. More often than not, trekking north of Kathmandu is kind of astoundingly accessible, yet not intensely frequented. What's even more surprising is that, despite being almost at a stone's throw from Kathmandu, this region is still fresh and pristinely. Helambu might not offer the majestic mountain panorama like its neighboring regions of Langtang and Gosaikunda, but it definitely gives you the opportunity to take a closer look at the village life patterns and can be a great destination for winter or cultural trek. The other good thing about trekking in this region is that, it is logistically very viable and the altitudinal hassle is not a daunting concern. The Himalayan foothills constitute the major landscape of this region and you could well be teased by the dramatic ascents and meticulous descents at times.

The Helambu Trek commences with an hour’s drive to Sundarijal from Kathmandu, followed by a short enticing walk to Chisopani on the same day. On the way, we can get a glimpse of the Shivapuri National Park. In the days ahead, we continue towards Kutumsang, Thadepati and Sermathang, passing by the thick mountain forests, some beautiful rice terraces and an array of splendid monasteries. Our trek eventually winds up at the Melamchi Pul Bazar, a prosperous looking town in the Helambu region. This trek isn’t actually about rocketing altitudes, but yes, this does not mean that you will have to forgo the scenic retreats. An easy hike to the Amayangri Hill at a meager, 3080m can get you seriously indulged in the tempting beauty of the surrounding peaks- Lang tang Lirung (7246 m) and Ganesh Himal (7604m). If you are not the kind who usually puts up with the legion of trekkers and daunting elevations of the Everest and Annapurna regions, the Helambu Trek is definitely going to be a perfect pick for you.

OUTLINE ITINERARY

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1463m/ 1hour) and trek from Sundarijal to Chisopani (2194m/ 4hours)

Day 04: Trek from Chisopani to Kutumsang (2471m/ 6hours)

Day 05: Trek from Kutumsang to Thadepati (3600m/ 5hours)

Day 06: Trek from Thadepati to Tarke Gyang (2550m/6 - 7hours)

Day 07: Excursion day in Tarke Gyang; Hike to Ama Yangry Hill (3080m/4hours)

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu (1400m)

Upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu, a representative from Marron Treks will receive and transfer you to your hotel. After you are greeted with welcome drinks at the hotel, we will have a quick pre-trip meeting to discuss on the necessary formalities and trekking itinerary. You can then check in to your room, freshen up and rest. Or if you are not one of those “lay back” types, you can take a stroll around the vicinity of your hotel and get the feel of this hyperactive capital city of Nepal. On the streets, people seem to be on sheer rush, barely noticing one another, but if you utter “Namaste”, they will definitely reciprocate with a smile! Well, that’s Nepal’s Nepalese for you. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 02: Kathmandu city sightseeing (1400m)

This is the day that gives you the opportunity to get well versed to the city. After a succulent breakfast at the hotel, we will introduce you to our amiable and experienced city guide. Hop in to our private car and head on for a guided tour, piercing the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. You will be visiting the most renowned historical and cultural landmarks of Kathmandu - like Pasupatinath Temple (the most revered Hindu shrine), Swayambunath (the monkey temple) and Kathmandu (Basantapur) Durbar Square. All these sites are included in the UNESCO world heritage list. After this informative and enticing tour, we drive back through the noisy and usually cluttered streets of Kathmandu to the serene premises of the hotel. Hope the tour lived up to your expectations. Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast included.

Day 03: Drive from Kathmandu to Sundarijal (1463m/ 1hour) and trek from Sundarijal to Chisopani (2194m/4hours)

It’s time now to forgo the comfort of the hotel and gear up for the mission. Savor the succulent breakfast and the hotel and join your guide for a short drive, along the leveled road to Sundarijal. You will definitely recall some section of this road as you had cruised along the same track yesterday, on your visit to the Boudanath. Sundarijal is only about 7 kms from this giant Stupa.

After our arrival at Sundarijal, the trek commences with a steep climb above a huge water pipe (that supplies drinking water to Kathmandu) to the entry check post of the Shivapuri National Park. The ascent continues up the hill, through the forest until we arrive at a dam. From here, the trails then takes a fairly steep gradient and meets a dirt trail, which brings us to at the village of “Mulkharka”. From this Tamang dominated village, we can witness a wonderful view of the Kathmandu valley underneath. Putting up with the arduous climb, we pass by an abandoned hospital and a helipad and enter a funky rhododendron forest to reach the top of the pass, at Borlang Bhanjang (2440m). It takes us about 1.5 hours to get to the top of the pass from Sundarijal. From here, it is a soothing downhill walk through the beautiful forests of Oak and Rhododendrons, towards Chisopani, which literally means “cold water” in Nepali. This village does not look attractive to be honest, but offers superb mountain views. Overnight at teahouse in Chisopani; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 04: Trek from Chisopani to Kutumsang (2471m/6hours)

Leaving the wide track, we drop down into the valley through a curvy dirt trail and then turn left to catch another dirt trail, which brings us to Pati Bhanjyang. From here, we head north on a spacious route, roughly cut into the hillside and then ascent to a small chorten at the Sherpa village of Thakuni. The trail then takes us steeply up, past a lodge and then deviates right along the stone steps towards the village of Chipling. We now make a gentle ascent through the fields and small a forest to arrive at a trail junction. We embark on the middle track and climb up past a series of stone huts to the settlement Lapchu Danda. Enjoying the views of the surrounding peaks (provided that the day is clear, we drop down through the rhododendron forests and join a wide route, which takes us to the Tamang village of “Thotung”. From here, we descend for about half an hour to arrive at yet another Tamang village called “Golphu Bhanjyang”. Our trek now becomes steeper and enticingly scenic at the same time. We ascend a hill towards a small saddle and follow a stream gully. The path again climbs over a crumbly rock to the bungalow style Kutumsang Guest House. From here, we further climb to the lawn of the Dragon Lodge, embellished with fluttering prayer flags. The ascent continues to a small pass at 2580 m, from where the trail passes below a scary granite cliff and then winds down through the boulder-strewn meadow, occupied with grazing cows. Listening to the tinkling small bells hung to the necks of those cattle, we eventually arrive at the settlement of Kutumsang. There is Langtang National Park Office here and an entry fee of NRs. 1,000 is mandatory for all foreign nationals. Overnight at teahouse in Kutumsang; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 05: Trek from Kutumsang to Thadepati (3600m/5hours)

The trek resumes heading north across a big white chorten, towards a towering ridge in the distance. The trail then goes in and out of the rhododendron forest, alongside the isolated farms. We climb up the “Yuri Danda Ridge” noticing the peaks of Langtang and Gosaikunda gradually hooding up. This long strenuous climb of about 3 hrs, continues until we hit the summit of the “Mere Danda” (3510m). Surprisingly, on this route that seems to have gobbled up all our energy, we might encounter the local people walking with ridiculous ease, carrying mammoth loads of bamboo. The gradient now shows mercy on us as the trail drops down to an absolutely scenic village of “Magin Goth”, dotted with an array of comfy lodges. We push ourselves further up the steep route, through the dense pine forest, passing by several chortens and dismantled huts for about 2 hours, until we arrive at the settlement of Thadepati. It has been a tiring walk so far, but if you are not bogged down with this drudgery, we can try a steep path that goes above the village to a hilltop draped with prayer flags. This vantage point offers fabulous view of the Lantang Himalayas. Overnight at teahouse in Thadepati; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 06: Trek from Thadepati to Tarke Gyang (2550m/6 - 7hours)

We begin our trek heading east from Thadepati, descending a ridge through the pine forest; mind you, the views are not that promising, no mountains at all!! Our route now transforms to a water-logged cattle track and descends leftwards. We cross a log bridge and then follow the north bank through the rhododendron forests, only to descend past the chortens and meadows dotted with dismantled huts. The trail now takes a nose dive and continues through the forest and many small hamlets, until we arrive at a considerably bigger settlement of Melamchi Gyang. There is a large renovated Gompa in the center of the village, which contains the statues of a renowned Buddhist figures cum the spiritual leaders, “Guru Rinpoche”, Sakyamuni and Chenresig. From the gompa, the trail drops steeply into the forest, passing by an array of imposing chortens, until we arrive at a trail junction. We follow the smaller grassy trail down to a suspension bridge and then take an immediate ascent up the east side of the valley, which brings us to the village of Nakote. There is a large gompa here with a flagstone courtyard and an enigmatic stone column with carved human faces. From here, we move ahead towards another large yellow and white chorten. The trail now goes up the hill; the steep gradient continues past the several small hamlets with Mani walls and chortens. Finally, a meticulous climb on the slippery log steps gets us to the vicinity of Tarke Gyang. Characterized by the cluttered houses and congested cobbled lanes, Tarke Gyang epitomizes the typical high-altitude village of Mustang. Overnight at teahouse in Tarke Gyang; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 07: Excursion day in Tarke Gyang; Hike to Amayangry Hill (3080m/4hours)

Well, after that incessant walking for about four days, I am sure, you must all be longing for something unconventional. Just to break the trekking monotony, we’ve set aside day 07 as a rest day, coupled with a short enticing excursion to one of the most renowned vantage points in the vicinity of Tarke Gyang. The “Ama Yangri Hill” is our pick today. Hitting the summit of this chorten-topped peak is a 2 to 2.5 hours’ of exhausting climb, through the pine and rhododendron forests. The hill has a holy significance as it is regarded as an abode of a deity believed to be the custodian of the valley and its inhabitants. From the top of the hill, one can relish the mind-boggling views of Langtang Lirung to the north and Mt. Kanchenjunga to the west. After this enticing indulgence, we hike back to Tarke Gyang. We can explore the huge square “Gyang” monastery here. This is the oldest monastery of Helambu region and it is from this monastery that the village happens to get its name, Tarke Gyang. Overnight at teahouse in Tarke Gyang; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 08: Trek from Tarke Gyang to Sermathang (2693m/5hours)

We take the upper path by the “Tarke Gyang Hotel” and walk through the Buddhist settlements of “Seti Gyang” and “Gyangyul” until we finally arrive at the village of Sermathang. There are three large gompas and several well-facilitated lodges here. Sermathang was once a favored trekkers’ stop in the Helambu Circuit, but owing to the operation of a new road along the Melamchi Valley, the village has been left quite stranded. Overnight at teahouse in Sermathang; breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Day 09: Trek from Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazar (846m/6hours) and drive from Melamchi Pul Bazar to Kathmandu (1400m/5hours)

Sensing the potential threat of Sermathang being isolated due to the prevalence of the new road along the Melamchi Valley, the local inhabitants of Sermathang have collectively taken the initiative to construct a road that links Sermathang to Melamchi Pul Bazaar. On this last day of our trek, we take on the teasing ascents and descents along the dusty trail; chances are that your shoes and clothes could be smeared with brownish dust!! “Endure” is the name of the game and we continue pushing ourselves forward, following an undulating ridge through the pine forests, passing by an array of teashops. The route now descends to” Kakani”, the last Sherpa settlement we come across on this trip. Eventually, to wrap up the footy mission, we cross a large suspension bridge over the Indrawati River and make our way into the Melamchi Pul Bazaar, a seemingly unorganized bustling little town. We can rest for some time in one of the hotels here; maybe you would want to sip a “Masala Tea” to rejuvenate your chapped lips and dry throat. We have our private car waiting for us. About 5 hours’ drive from here will take us to the comfort and charisma of Kathmandu. You will be transferred to your hotel. In the evening Marron Treks will host a farewell dinner program featuring a range of traditional Nepali cuisines and an enticing cultural show. Enjoy to the fullest, make this last night in Nepal count!! Overnight at hotel in Kathmandu; breakfast and dinner included.

Day 10: Final departure

A representative from Marron Treks will escort you to the Tribhuwan International Airport, three hours prior to your flight schedule. As you wave us good bye and enter the terminal block, you would perhaps recall your arrival at this place. No wonder everything seems so familiar now because, you had come here as tourist, but you are going back as a friend! Have a safe flight back home and we look forward to being your travel companion in Nepal again!

Important Snippets

The itinerary prescribed above is the standard template of the trip plan offered by Marron Treks which can be readily customized to match the guests’ preferences. However, the guests are expected to understand that the execution of the trip plan might be circumvented by an array of uncontrollable factors like bad weather, political turmoil, strikes, blockades and other unforeseen contingencies. Under such abnormal circumstances, the trip plans might undergo slight or sharp alterations, taking into consideration, the best interest of the clients. Wherever the changes are made, Marron Treks cannot be held responsible for the consequences. Nevertheless, we shall endeavor our level best to make sure that the trip is carried out with respect to the original trip specifics.

During the trek, you will be accommodated in a Tea House/ Lodge or Trekking Inn. Most of these lodges and teahouses cater good services and are equipped with modern amenities. We will endeavor to provide you the best accommodation available along the route so that you get a good night’s rest in a hygienic milieu.

Meals

We arrange the best quality food during the trek as we are concerned about the health of the trekkers as well as the staff members. Basically, we opt for locally available food in the Langtang Region so that you could a real sense of the culture, living patterns, simultaneously promoting the locally available resources of organic food and beverages. Other than, a wide range of Continental, Chinese, Italian and Indian cuisines like Pizza, Spaghetti, French Fries, Soups, Breads etc are also available for your retreat.

Porter and Staff Care

When it comes to high altitude trekking, porters and staff members make up a pivot. Marron Treks ensures that all the porters and staff members going to high altitude conditions, are provided with adequate clothing and equipments.

Best Months

January-June & September-December are considered to be best months for Helambhu Trek.

Difficulties

The trek wouldn't be difficult for those who have good physical strength and stamina. Physical fitness is the only key to accomplish this trek.

Our Guides

Guides play a significant role during the trek. They are the ones who literally decipher the trekking codes for you so that you could actually connect with the nature, culture and people along the way. We have helpful and dedicated trekking guides, who are fairly literate, multilingual speakers and are very well versed to the culture, life patterns and every single detail pertaining to the Langtang region. Thus, in the company of our professional Sherpa guides, your trek becomes not only entertaining, but also equally informative.

Travel Insurance

It is advised that you arrange your travel insurance before leaving your homeland. The main thing is to make sure that your insurance covers you for both- medical as well as evacuation costs. Having a travel insurance with you, makes your trip secure and hassle free.

Nepal entry visa fee – Visa can be obtained upon your arrival at the Tribhuwan International Airport in Kathmandu. (Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 15 days costs US $ 25 or equivalent foreign currency, Tourist Visa with Multiple Entries for 30 days and 90 days costs US $40 and $ 100 respectively. You will need a valid passport and 2 copies of your recent PP sized photos).

Tips to the guide, porter, driver, hotel and tea-house staff (Tipping is expected).

Cost incurred due to the addition of extra days or change in the real course of the itinerary because of bad weather conditions, political turmoil or any other unforeseen contingencies like (but not limited to) natural calamities, accidents, illness, thefts, damages etc.

Garbage deposit fees (refundable).

Any other expenses not mentioned in the 'Cost Includes' section above.

TREKKING GEARS & EQUIPMENTS

Needless to say that kitting and stuffing yourself out for a trek is almost a herculean task which keeps you mulling and often gets you overwhelmed. But at the mercy of the renting outlets sprouting in every visible corner in Kathmandu, preparing for trekking in Nepal these days is almost tantamount to equipping yourself for a weekend backpacking trip. Most of the heavy and expensive items are easily available on rent, so you don’t actually have to travel Nepal with a cartload of gears. We have endeavored to formulate a categorical checklist that gives you a tentative idea regarding the gears and accessories mandatory for you during the trek. The list could vary depending upon the kind of trek you pursue, the terrain, weather conditions and time of the year. For instance, you don’t need the camp-trek equipments when you are on a tea-house trek. This listing below simply serves as a guideline and you can always have your own checklist. It is always preferable to pack light and the key to this is to carry the gears and accessories that have multidimensional uses.

CLOTHING (Core & Lower body)

Water-proof (breathable fabric) jacket, Poncho or Umbrella

Hard shell pants (breathable fabric- 1 set), preferably that zips from top and bottom which can be worn over boots without getting undressed, in case of abrupt weather changes

Duffle bag (will be provided by Marron Treks as a complimentary gear and you needn't return it )

Pack cover (to protect your gears from getting wet)

Day sack/Nylon stuff sack

Sleeping Bag/ Silk liner (will be provided by Marron Treks but should be returned after the trip)

Water bottle

Good head torch along with spare batteries and bulbs

Maps, compass and a guide book

Trekking poles

Miscellaneous Bits

The items below could seem trivial, but if you don’t have them, you might just find

yourself sticky and stinky, which isn’t actually good for you!

Toiletries

Quick-drying camp towel

Detergent powder/bar

Toilet paper

Sunscreen Lotion (SPF 20+) & Lip balm

Pocket knife

Sewing/Repair Kit (for tent & mattress)

Emergency kit including a whistle, waterproof match/lighter

Padlocks for bags and lodge rooms

Stuff sacks

Earplugs

Candlesticks

Medicaments

It is important that you can include the medicines prescribed by your doctor. Below is just the generic list of medications. We advice you to always consult your travel doctor as you might be resistant or allergic to some medicines

Anesthetics (Ibuprofen/Aspirin)

Broad spectrum antibiotics tablets

Metronidazole and Antacids (for diarrohea /indigestion)

Broad spectrum ointments (Neosporin/ Clotrimazole/Gentamicin)

Antiseptic liquids (Dettol/Savlon)

Assorted band-aids

Small gauge pad

Roll of adhesive tape

Iodine tablets

Optional Carry

Nothing hard and fast about carrying the items in this list as they are not the basics. Yet, though not all, if you still manage to squeeze in some of these items on your carry, you will not regret as they might just come handy during the trek

Camera, memory card and battery charger

GPS unit Altimeters

Binoculars

Pee bottle for men (leak proof/wide mouth) & Pee funnel for women

Books and magazines

Departure Date

Marron Treks has calibrated fixed departure dates for all the trek packages. We operate group as well as individual/private treks. Please pick the most palpable date for you and book your trip now. If the dates below don’t fit your schedule, kindly contact us directly and let us know about your preference.

Trip Facts

Starting Price: USD XXXX (On request)

Group Size: 01 – 12 Pax

Trip Grade: Moderate + fairly challenging

Accommodation: Camping/Tea House

Transportation: Private Car/Jeep

Highest Elevation: Thadepati (3600m)

Lowest Elevation: Melamchi Pul Bazaar (846m)

Average Walking Hours per Day: 5 Hours

Trek Commences From: Sundarijal (1463m)

Trek Terminates At: Melamchi Pul Bazaar (846m)

Best Months: Jan-Jun & Sep-Dec

Trip Highlights

Short and fun-packed trip with plenty of scenic retreats

Drive around the Kathmandu valley with an experienced city guide, visiting the most renowned historical and cultural landmarks

Relish the mountainous vistas of Langtang Lirung (7246 m) and Ganesh Himal (7604m) as you trek along the awe-inspiring milieu of Sundarijal

Enticing hike to the Amayangri Hill (3080m), a vantage point to witness the beauty of the surrounding peaks

Opportunity to interact with the Sherpa people gets you acquainted to their culture and life patterns

Saunter through beautiful terraced fields, simultaneously relishing the views of the some of the most splendid Buddhist monasteries

A full-fledged Nepali style farewell dinner program, featuring a range of succulent Nepali cuisines cum an entertaining live cultural show